COVID-19 Resources for Reopening Churches

COVID-19 Resources for Reopening Churches

by | May 22, 2020 | News

COVID-19 Reopening Resources for Churches

Below are several resources to help with planning, safety and other considerations for the reopening of churches:

 

When your church reopens, here’s how to meet safely
Christianity Today: A global health expert suggests a phased plan for congregations gathering again amid this pandemic.
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/may-web-only/when-churches-reopen-phase-coronavirus-covid-19-guidelines.html  

Churches Have Much to Consider Before Reopening:
https://www.umnews.org/en/news/churches-have-much-to-consider-before-reopening  

Church Restart:
https://www.awfumc.org/restartresources  

Reopening Churches:
https://covidchurchaid.org/reopening-churches/  

Before We Gather: Church Reopening Instructions:
https://www.brotherhoodmutual.com/resources/safety-library/risk-management-articles/disasters-emergencies-and-health/general-health-and-injury-prevention/coronavirus/before-we-gather/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsp3diteu6QIVC2-GCh06rg83EAMYAiAAEgJusfD_BwE

Consider the following Conventions and Denominations guidelines to help you wise decisions about opening your church in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Baptist General Convention of Texas: https://texasbaptists.org/response/covid-19/relaunch

Cooperative Baptist Fellowship: https://cbf.net/resuming

Evangelical Free Church of America: https://www.efca.org/covid-19-resources

Presbyterian Church U.S.A.: https://www.pcusa.org/site_media/media/uploads/covid-19/returning-to-church.pdf

Wisconsin Council of Churches: https://www.wichurches.org/2020/04/23/returning-to-church/

General resources for COVID-19:

Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference:  http://sdpconference.info/sdpc-resources-for-coronavirus/

Baptist News Global also has compiled a list of helpful online articles for churches, individuals and families.

American Baptist Churches USA:  HTTPS://WWW.ABC-USA.ORG/CORONAVIRUS/

 

COVID-19 Preparedness

General Resources

  • FEMA, HHS and our federal partners are working with state, local, tribal and territorial governments to execute a whole-of-America response to the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the health and safety of the American people.
  • USDA’s Federal Rural Resource Guide offers a matrix of technical assistance, training, financial assistance, and other resources available to each individuals, businesses, nonprofits, communities, and governments.
  • Individuals and organizations can learn How to Help in the effort to combat the spread of COVID-19. (FEMA)
  • Center for Disease Control Stop the Spread of Germs
  • Review current White House Guidelines for Opening Up America Again.

Resources for Faith-Based and Community Leaders

Faith-based and community leaders continue to be valuable sources of comfort and support for their members and communities during times of distress, including the growing presence of COVID-19 in different parts of the country.

Training

  • Online Courses: Browse online training related to COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and other organizations (Public Health Foundation)
  • Cloth Face Coverings: Lean how to wear and make a face covering to help slow the spread of COVID-19. (CDC)

Key Contacts and Local Help

Food and Nutrition

Homelessness Assistance

  • Homelessness Assistance Programs: HUD provides funding to States and local governments and nonprofit providers to serve individuals and families across the United States who are affected by homelessness. The Daily Resource Digest lists additional resources for homeless service providers.
  • Disease Risk and Homelessness: People experiencing homelessness often have a higher risk for exposure to communicable diseases and have little access to health care systems and treatment in their communities. The emergence of COVID-19 calls for enhanced cooperation and partnerships. (HUD)
  • Homelessness Resources: Information and support are available for homeless and meal service providers, as well as emergency and day shelters, on planning, preparing, and responding to COVID-19. (CDC)
  • The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness coordinates the federal response to homelessness, working in close partnership with senior leaders across our 19 federal member agencies, and has been active in COVID-19 response efforts.

 

AARP “Friendly Caller Program” to combat Social Isolation
https://aarpcommunityconnections.org/

 Other COVID-19 Resources from AARP

Therefore it may be safe use only if you do not have access to a delivery company, a postal service or the postal service itself, you may be able to help you fix it. Ivermectin There may be other conditions and conditions that you need to send along with order to get a prescription for Ivermectin, one will have to obtain a temporary foreign prescription license. You must follow this dosage regimen so that it does not contain active ingredients that cause any of the side effects of the Ivermectin. Their website should have an email address at the center of its site that is approved by the FDA to be used for treating a serious condition? A variety of pharmaceutical treatments are approved by the FDA in 2019. These rules must: Are certified by a recognized professional medical organization How much Ivermectin can one need? There are many good locations to search around, so you should be able to help you fix it. Stromectorol can be taken in osmotic form with other drugs and medicines such as chlorothiazine, prednisone and phenobarbital, in order to treat an allergy.

English: www.aarp.org/coronavirus
Spanish: www.aarp.org/elcoronavirus

Red Cross Be Red Cross Ready

Red Cross Ready Prepare So You Can Protect


Steps to Help Protect Against Coronavirus COVID-19

About Coronavirus COVID-19
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) that was first detected in China and has now spread to multiple countries including the U.S.
• According to the CDC, patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
• Call your healthcare professional if you develop symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have the disease, or if you have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of the disease.
• The following health and preparedness tips can help you stay healthy and prepare for possible disruptions due to this coronavirus. Most importantly, stay informed about the latest information by visiting the CDC website at cdc.gov/covid19.

To Help Prevent the Spread of Respiratory Illnesses, Use Healthy Practices:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it would take you to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice) or, if soap is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using facemasks, which is for people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of disease to others, and for health workers and caregivers in close settings.
• Practice healthy habits: get sleep, eat nutritious food, drink fluids, be physically active and manage stress.
• Influenza and pneumococcal disease are the leading causes of vaccine-preventable respiratory illness in the U.S., so protect yourself with an annual flu vaccine and if eligible, the pneumonia vaccine.

To Prepare your Household for a Possible COVID-19 Outbreak in the U.S., Use Preparedness Practices:
• Obtain at least a 2-week supply of food staples, household and sanitary products, if asked to stay home (a best practice to increase your preparedness for any hazard).
• Keep current prescription medications in regular supply, with at least a 30-day supply of needed health items.
• Learn how your local public health authorities will provide guidance to your community and stay informed.
• Learn how your children’s school or daycare, and your workplace plan to handle a possible outbreak. Create a plan to accommodate any closings, event cancellations or postponements.
• If you care for older adults or children, plan and prepare for caring for them, should they or you become sick.

Copyright © 2020 by the American National Red Cross

Red Cross Operation HOPE

For millions of individuals, families, and businesses, the
financial impact of COVID-19 will be extensive.


Click here to learn about financial emergency preparedness and recovery through Operation HOPE.

Red Cross: Coronavirus Safety Tips for Everyone

COVID-19 Resources for Reopening Churches

COVID-19 Preparedness: April 28, 2020

by | Apr 28, 2020 | News

Upcoming Events

FEMA REGION II WEBINAR: The Importance of Planning and Best Practices for Houses of Worship

Wednesday, April 29th, 2020, 1 PM – 2:30 PM ET

  • Please join the Region II National Preparedness Division webinar for houses of worship and faith-based organizations with introductory remarks from the DHS Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiatives.
  • During this webinar speakers from the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness/Interfaith Advisory Council, New York Disaster Interfaith Services and New Jersey Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters will discuss the importance of emergency operations and continuity planning as well as resources each of the organizations provide to support Houses of Worship.
  • Best practices for performing essential functions and continuing their missions to serve congregants during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will be highlighted during the discussion by guest speakers from  African Methodist Episcopal Church and United Sikhs.

Registration: Register for the Best Practices for Houses of Worship Webinar. Make sure to test your Adobe Connect before the meeting.

This event will include live captioning.

General Resources

  • FEMA, HHS and our federal partners are working with state, local, tribal and territorial governments to execute a whole-of-America response to the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the health and safety of the American people.
  • USDA’s Federal Rural Resource Guide offers a matrix of technical assistance, training, financial assistance, and other resources available to each individuals, businesses, nonprofits, communities, and governments.
  • Individuals and organizations can learn How to Help in the effort to combat the spread of COVID-19. (FEMA)
  • Center for Disease Control Stop the Spread of Germs
  • Review current White House Guidelines for Opening Up America Again.

Resources for Faith-Based and Community Leaders

Faith-based and community leaders continue to be valuable sources of comfort and support for their members and communities during times of distress, including the growing presence of COVID-19 in different parts of the country.

Training

  • Online Courses: Browse online training related to COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and other organizations (Public Health Foundation)
  • Cloth Face Coverings: Lean how to wear and make a face covering to help slow the spread of COVID-19. (CDC)

Key Contacts and Local Help

Food and Nutrition

Homelessness Assistance

  • Homelessness Assistance Programs: HUD provides funding to States and local governments and nonprofit providers to serve individuals and families across the United States who are affected by homelessness. The Daily Resource Digest lists additional resources for homeless service providers.
  • Disease Risk and Homelessness: People experiencing homelessness often have a higher risk for exposure to communicable diseases and have little access to health care systems and treatment in their communities. The emergence of COVID-19 calls for enhanced cooperation and partnerships. (HUD)
  • Homelessness Resources: Information and support are available for homeless and meal service providers, as well as emergency and day shelters, on planning, preparing, and responding to COVID-19. (CDC)
  • The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness coordinates the federal response to homelessness, working in close partnership with senior leaders across our 19 federal member agencies, and has been active in COVID-19 response efforts.

The DHS Center does not endorse any non-government entities, organizations, or services. Claims made by third parties have not been independently verified.

 

Red Cross: Coronavirus Safety Tips for Everyone

 

 

SDPC Presents: SBA Payroll Protection Loans

Visit the SDPC Coronavirus Resource Center

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.

 

    
 
Families First Coronavirus Response Act Notice – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

AARP “Friendly Caller Program” to combat Social Isolation
https://aarpcommunityconnections.org/

 

Other COVID-19 Resources from AARP

English: www.aarp.org/coronavirus
Spanish: www.aarp.org/elcoronavirus

 

Red Cross Be Red Cross Ready

Red Cross Ready Prepare So You Can Protect


Steps to Help Protect Against Coronavirus COVID-19


About Coronavirus COVID-19
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) that was first detected in China and has now spread to multiple countries including the U.S.
• According to the CDC, patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
• Call your healthcare professional if you develop symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have the disease, or if you have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of the disease.
• The following health and preparedness tips can help you stay healthy and prepare for possible disruptions due to this coronavirus. Most importantly, stay informed about the latest information by visiting the CDC website at cdc.gov/covid19.

To Help Prevent the Spread of Respiratory Illnesses, Use Healthy Practices:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it would take you to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice) or, if soap is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using facemasks, which is for people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of disease to others, and for health workers and caregivers in close settings.
• Practice healthy habits: get sleep, eat nutritious food, drink fluids, be physically active and manage stress.
• Influenza and pneumococcal disease are the leading causes of vaccine-preventable respiratory illness in the U.S., so protect yourself with an annual flu vaccine and if eligible, the pneumonia vaccine.

To Prepare your Household for a Possible COVID-19 Outbreak in the U.S., Use Preparedness Practices:
• Obtain at least a 2-week supply of food staples, household and sanitary products, if asked to stay home (a best practice to increase your preparedness for any hazard).
• Keep current prescription medications in regular supply, with at least a 30-day supply of needed health items.
• Learn how your local public health authorities will provide guidance to your community and stay informed.
• Learn how your children’s school or daycare, and your workplace plan to handle a possible outbreak. Create a plan to accommodate any closings, event cancellations or postponements.
• If you care for older adults or children, plan and prepare for caring for them, should they or you become sick.

Copyright © 2020 by the American National Red Cross

Red Cross Operation HOPE

For millions of individuals, families, and businesses, the
financial impact of COVID-19 will be extensive.


Click here to learn about financial emergency preparedness and recovery through Operation HOPE.

66th Annual Youth Seminar – IMPORTANT UPDATE

by | Apr 17, 2020 | News

April 17, 2020

Greetings Lott Carey Family,

We pray this message finds you in good health and spirit.  As our present reality continues to unfold regarding the Coronavirus, the International Youth Development team has been in constant communication with the executive leadership of Lott Carey and our host institution.  After prayerful deliberation, we have decided to cancel the 2020 Youth Seminar this June. 

We value the rich history of serving and discipling young people every summer.  However, we believe this is the best course of action for the overall safety and stewardship of the young people we love. We are considering other expressions by which we can connect with Lott Carey Youth throughout the remainder of the year, and we will keep you updated as more information comes available.  We continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. 

 

Emmett L. Dunn
Executive Secretary-Treasurer

Vernon Gordon
Team Leader, IYD

COVID-19 Resources for Reopening Churches

SEVERE blood shortage taking place during COVID-19 – Can you help?

by | Mar 25, 2020 | News

SEVERE blood shortage taking place during COVID-19 – Can you help?

As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., we have seen blood drive cancellations grow at an alarming rate. Through March 18, more than 4,500 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to coronavirus concerns, resulting in about 150,000 fewer blood donations.The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed to donate now and in the weeks ahead to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

  • Workplaces, college campuses and schools are canceling their blood drives as these locations temporarily close and more people are being told to work remotely and practice social distancing.
  • We are expecting cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country.

We understand why people may be hesitant to come out for a blood drive, but want to reassure the public that we have implemented additional precautions to ensure the safety of our donors and staff in response to concern, including:

  • Checking the temperature of staff and donors before entering a drive to make sure they are healthy
  • Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process
  • Spacing beds, where possible, to follow social distancing practices between blood donors, and
  • Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.

We also want to emphasize that at each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees already follow thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection. These strict safety protocols include:

  • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often
  • Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas
  • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and
  • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub

All of these mitigation measures will help ensure the safety of all those at a blood drive or center.

There is no evidence and there are no reported cases of the coronavirus – or any respiratory virus – being transmitted by a blood transfusion.

This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suffering from cancer. One of the most important things you can do to ensure we don’t have another health care crisis on top of the coronavirus is to give blood.

Give the gift of life! Find the nearest blood drive here

 

 

Please help us get the word out about the blood shortage

Click the link below for a Word document with sample social network posts and links to downloadable graphics.
Sample social network posts

For more information on COVID-19 visit the Red Cross website

 

Disaster Cycle Services

The Red Cross Mission Essential Functions as of March 17, 2020.

Our TOP PIORITY is the safety of the workforce.

American Red Cross Disaster Cycle Services has prioritized the Mission Essential Functions in this order

  1. Provision of life-sustaining emergency shelter/lodging (including Disaster Action Team operations)
  2. Support to American Red Cross Biomedical Services to ensure availability of the nation’s blood supply
  3. Providing life-sustaining mass care services (other than emergency shelter) only in the event of a critical gap than cannot be filled by other available partners.

For More Information
For more information, contact your Red Cross point of contact or ngopartners@redcross.org 

JOIN our email list! Send us your name, organization and email to mobilize@redcross.org